206* REMARKS ON THE PRESERVATION 



On this subject Mr Waterton makes the follow. 

 ing remarks : " I only know of two methods* 

 says he, ' ' to guard preserved insects from the de- 

 predations of living ones. The first is, by poisoJ 

 ing the atmosphere the second is, by poisoning 

 the prepared specimens themselves, so effectually 

 that they are no longer food for the depredators 

 But there are some objections to both these modes 

 a poisoned atmosphere will evaporate in time if ncr 

 attended to, or if neglected to be renewed ; an<i 

 there is great difficulty in poisoning some specimen! 

 on account of their delicacy and minuteness. 1 

 you keep spirits of turpentine in the boxes whid 

 contain your preserved specimens, I am of opin 

 that those specimens will be safe as long as the odol 

 of the turpentine remains in the box, for it is sai 

 to be the most pernicious of all scents to insects 

 But it requires attention to keep up an atmosph m 

 of spirit of turpentine ; if it be allowed to evaporatt 

 entirely, then there is a clear and undisputed patf 

 open to the inroads of the enemy ; he will take 

 advantage of your absence or neglect, and wher 

 you return to view your treasure you will find i 

 in ruins. Spirits of turpentine poured into a com- 

 mon glass inkstand, in which there is a piece! 

 sponge, and placed in a corner of your box, 

 create a poisoned atmosphere, and kill every insect 

 there. The poisoning of your specimens by mean* 

 of corrosive sublimate in alcohol, is a most effectual! 



